A conditional female lethal system for genetic suppression of the global fruit crop pest <scp><i>Drosophila suzukii</i></scp>

Abstract BACKGROUND Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931, Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a global pest of soft‐skinned fruits such as blueberries, cherries and raspberries. Also known spotted‐wing drosophila, D. native to Asia but now widely distributed in the Americas Europe, presents serious challenge for growers. Genetic control strategies offer an environmentally friendly approach . RESULTS In this study, we developed transgenic strains that carry dominant conditional female lethal transgenes. When raised absence tetracycline, die. We show repeated releases excess males can suppress populations laboratory cage trials. CONCLUSION Our data suggest strain could provide effective invasive fruits.